Pet First Animal Hospital

Microchipping is a very safe and easy way to permanently identify that your pet belongs to you if he or she runs away or gets lost. Microchipping is easy! Dr. Taylor, veterinarian at Pet First Animal Hospital, will inject a tiny electronic chip that is roughly the same size as a grain of rice slightly under the skin of your pet's neck. This type of injection is very similar to your pet receiving a vaccine; quick, easy, and definitely worthwhile!

Humane societies check for microchips anytime a pet is dropped off at one of their facilities. This is fantastic for pet owners who have lost their pet, because they will be able to scan your pet for the chip and contact you. Our veterinarian Dr. Taylor highly suggests microchipping and having your pet wear a collar with your contact information.

Having your pet wear just a pt tag or identification collar alone and not in combination with a microchip is risky. The tags and collars need to be replaced regularly and can slip off or become difficult to read. Since microchips last a lifetime, you will at least have the peace of mind knowing that even if the collar slips off, you do have a permanent way of identifying your pet. Some microchip registries offer additional services for your pet's care such as offering specialists 24/7 to assist with advice and support if your pet is lost, travel assistance for pets found far from home, and a 24/7 emergency medical hotline. Lost pet alerts are sent to a network of animal shelters, veterinarians, and concerned citizens around where your pet was lost.

Just remember to update your microchip whenever you have a change in contact information so that you can easily be reached in the terrible event that your pet becomes lost. Please call (941) 357-2063 to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian, Dr. Taylor, to have your pet microchipped today!